What is a Y4M file?
Y4M (YUV4MPEG2) is a raw, uncompressed video format without audio, used for codec testing and encoding pipelines. It was introduced in 2000 by MJPEG Tools / Xiph.Org.
What Y4M is good at
- Perfect, uncompressed picture
- Handy as an input to encoders
- Simple format that any tool can read
Where Y4M falls short
- Enormous files
- No sound
When to use Y4M
- Benchmarking codecs
- Feeding raw video to encoders
- Frame-exact analysis
Where Y4M files open
Y4M files open in ffmpeg, x264, x265, aomenc, VLC and other video tools.
Y4M compared with MP4
Y4M or MP4? Y4M is best for benchmarking codecs. MP4 is best for uploading to YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. Convert Y4M to MP4 or convert MP4 to Y4M.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Y4M file?
Y4M (YUV4MPEG2) is a raw, uncompressed video format without audio, used for codec testing and encoding pipelines. It was introduced in 2000 by MJPEG Tools / Xiph.Org.
What are the advantages of Y4M?
Perfect, uncompressed picture; handy as an input to encoders; simple format that any tool can read.
What are the drawbacks of Y4M?
Enormous files; no sound.
What programs open Y4M files?
Y4M files open in ffmpeg, x264, x265, aomenc, VLC and other video tools.
How do I convert a Y4M file?
Choose the Y4M converter you need from the list on this page, drop in your file and press Convert. You get your new file in seconds, free and without sign-up.